Walking in Grace, Stepping Out in Faith

Day 25-Changes of Seasons

It is a season of change in our household this year. We have four teenagers. Two are driving. The oldest started college as a dual credit student and all work either babysitting, cleaning houses, doing yards, or odd and end jobs. Between their school and work schedules, our daily and weekly household look different than it ever has before. Times together just as a family are beginning to get fewer which causes this momma’s heart to cherish moments and pray more!! Verses regarding training up a child and people’s advice to remember the days are long but the years are short ring through my mind.

For the second day in a row, I am in an empty house while the children are either in classes or at work. While a lot of the dynamics of our home are changing, there are still constants in my children’s lives that they still need.

As the children move from childhood to adulthood, they still need to be given a hug just because. They still need to hear the words, “I love you,” and everyone, no matter how old, enjoys hearing the words “Great job.” As children grow older, the pressure to perform increases and what was considered cute in the past is now frowned upon. As parents, we are allowed the opportunity to speak godly worth into each of their lives. One of the best ways to be able to know how to speak positive truth in their lives is to listen to them.

Just as hard as it is to get affirmation from this world, it is equally as hard to have the world listen. When we as parents take the time to listen to our children as they grow into adulthood, we gain insight into their struggles as well as their victories. Building the foundation of allowing our children to share without feeling ridiculed or put off will help them remember it is always safe to pick up the phone to call or make the trip home.

From the time a mom finds out she is pregnant prayers begin to be offered up on behalf of her child. The ministry of intercessory prayer for the child starts, and it never stops. It is through prayer that God allows us insight into each of our children’s lives even if they don’t share with us. It is through prayer God can move in the hearts of our children even when our own words seem to fall on deaf ears. It is through prayer God receives glory in the work He is doing in answering those prayers and raising bold men and women to proclaim His name.

Take some time out today and say a prayer for your children. Invite them to share some milk and cookies while you listen to their day. Encourage them in the great things you see God doing in their lives and then hug them and tell them you love them.

There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1